Volkswagen Tiguan Crossover full 9 point review
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Performance
Most Tiguans will be sold with VW's latest 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine, but there's also a 168bhp version and three petrol engines with 148, 168 and 197bhp. The diesels provide useful extra pulling muscle over the entry-level petrol, but the two most powerful petrol versions are brisk.
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Ride & Handling
Hill descent control is fitted to Escape versions for more off-road ability, but the Tiguan is primarily an on-road 4x4, not a dedicated off-roader. In fact, we prefer 2WD versions of the car, as they are even better to drive than 4WD models. The firm suspension means the ride will be a little jittery for some tastes, but it also means the body doesn't roll too much in corners. There's lots of grip, too, so it's one of the most fun crossovers to drive.
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Refinement
Whether you choose a petrol- or diesel-powered Tiguan, you won't be disturbed too much by the engine. All are smooth when you're picking up speed, but the diesel can be heard when you're cruising at 70mph. There's a bit of wind noise, too, but there's little road noise and you barely hear a peep out of the suspension.
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Buying & Owning
You won't be able to afford a Tiguan on a shoestring, but it's aggressively priced compared with many rivals. Like most VWs it holds its value better than other crossovers, too, so it's a cracking long-term investment. Running costs are also low on the 2WD models, which is just another reason why they're our favourites.
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Quality & Reliability
The Tiguan's cabin won't win any prizes for inspiring design, but there's no faulting the high standard of the build. The materials are solid and swanky, while the fit and finish have a real Germanic solidity. Most of the mechanicals are tried and tested, too, so there should be no reason to fear major problems.
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Safety & Security
Stability control, emergency brake assist and six airbags are standard, as they are on every VW from the Golf upwards, and the Tiguan's high seating position and permanent four-wheel drive (on some models) will be seen by many potential buyers as safety advantages. Deadlocks and an alarm are fitted to guard against theft.
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Behind The Wheel
Anyone familiar with VW Group products will feel at home in the Tiguan. The dashboard layout is neat and logical, and there's enough adjustment in the seat and wheel for most people to get comfortable. Rear visibility isn't so great, however, because of the chunky pillars and small rear screen, so we'd recommend you consider the optional rear-view parking camera.
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Space & Practicality
VW's baby 4x4 is a roomy four-seater, and just about adequate for five on an occasional basis. The sliding rear seats add versatility, but when they're pushed right back, the boot is severely restricted. It's well-shaped, however, and it's easy to fold the seats flat.
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Equipment
Trims are S, SE, Sport, Escape and R Line, and even the entry-level S 2WD gets air-conditioning, alloy wheels, four electric windows and an MP3-compatible CD player. Plusher SE trim adds chrome and leather detailing, while Sport models get bolstered seats, rain-sensing wipers and stiffer suspension. R Line versions get full sports trim, but Escape models are the off-roaders: they have a reworked front end and extra under-body protection to tackle tougher, steeper terrain.
Tiguan rivals
Tiguan used rivals
Volkswagen Tiguan Crossover 2.0 TDI 140 SE 2WD 5dr
This will be the best models in the range for most buyers, with all the style and equipment of the more expensive models, but cheaper to buy and own.
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